Tazarotene-or-tretinoin
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POSTED: 1 Jan 2023
Is Tazarotene Better Than Tretinoin?
In the world of skincare, retinoids are still the most product to treat skin ageing, acne and . are available in a variety of . Some are , whilst more active (stronger) ones are available on prescription. is probably the most famous of the retinoids. It has a solid body of evidence showing it , improves skin texture, and . There is, however, prescription retinoid that is less known but rumoured to be more powerful. In this article, we will discuss the key between the two and whether tazarotene is better than .
What are Tazarotene and Tretinoin?
, like , is a prescription retinoid that is usually available as a cream. It also treats acne, evens out skin tone and improves the of wrinkles. There’s a lot of marketing that as "stronger than tretinoin". However, although they have a similar mechanism of action, there are some important differences.
is a topical commonly under the brand names Tazorac, Avage, Zorac and Arazlo. When to the skin, it is . Tazarotene is a that can treat acne, sun-damage and photo-ageing but only has . Like all retinoids, it works by regulating the activity of your skin cells. This increases cell and decreases inflammation in the skin. helps improve the appearance and texture of the skin. It does so by exfoliating the outer layers of the skin, oil production, fading dark and pores. It is in a cream, gel, lotion and foam form. Patients typically apply it to the affected area as a thin layer once daily at .
Tretinoin, also known as all-trans OnabotulinumtoxinAAbobotulinumtoxinAIncobotulinumtoxinAPrabotulinumtoxinALetibotulinumtoxinARimabotulinumtoxinBHyaluronic Acid FillersCalcium Hydroxylapatite FillersPoly-L-lactic Acid FillersPolymethylmethacrylate FillersAutologous Fat GraftingForehead Lines TreatmentGlabellar Frown Lines TreatmentCrow's Feet TreatmentBunny Lines TreatmentChemical Brow LiftLip FlipGummy Smile CorrectionMasseter ReductionJaw SlimmingDimpled Chin SmoothingCobblestone Chin SmoothingNefertiti Neck LiftMicro-BotoxMesotoxHyperhidrosis TreatmentChronic Migraine ReliefBruxism TreatmentTMJ TreatmentCervical Dystonia TreatmentNeck Spasm TreatmentBlepharospasm TreatmentLip AugmentationLip ContouringCheekbone EnhancementTear Trough FillersNasolabial Fold SofteningMarionette Line FillersLiquid RhinoplastyNon-Surgical Nose JobJawline ContouringJawline DefinitionChin AugmentationTemple VolumisingHand RejuvenationAcne Scar Subcision Filling or Retin-A, is a first-generation topical retinoid. It also works by increasing cell turnover and skin cell . Whilst it only has , is prescribed to treat scars, hyperpigmentation and skin ageing. Tretinoin is in a cream, gel and lotion form. also usually apply it once daily at bedtime. Tretinoin comes in a variety of . is available in a compared with .
What Do Tazarotene and Tretinoin Have in Common?
There are several similarities between tazarotene and tretinoin. Namely, they both:
and tretinoin are at treating a variety of skin conditions but they can also cause side . They may also not be for certain such as those with eczema or very skin. Neither should be prescribed for pregnant or breastfeeding patients and it is advisable to use some form of birth whilst on them. This is why they are medicines. The most common dryness, and of the skin. There’s also a risk of allergic reaction, and potential drug interactions. These adverse effects may be more with tazarotene due to its higher potency.
It is to use tazarotene and as by your doctor. They will advise which dose and frequency is best for you and adjust according to your skin’s . You apply both medications to clean and dry skin at night and will likely need a hydrating moisturiser to reduce the risk of dry skin. They’ll also provide advice on the rest of your routine, how to use actives like benzoyl peroxide alongside these to reduce irritation. You must also use a sunscreen with a high SPF of at least 30 and avoid beds to against sunburn and skin cancer.
What’s the Difference Between Tazarotene and Tretinoin?
Whilst and tretinoin are both prescription topical retinoids, there are some key the two medications. One of the most differences between tazarotene and tretinoin is their . Tazarotene is generally more potent than and is in fact the strongest topical retinoid available on the market. Tazarotene is also available in higher than tretinoin which may be particularly useful in cases of severe acne. It is also the only topical that is indicated for use in . For and treating ageing skin, tazarotene, like tretinoin, is usually used at a concentration of 0.1%.
Another difference and is the type of acne they are most effective at treating. is more at treating acne, whilst is more at treating non-inflammatory acne. acne is by red, bumps that are often by and inflammation. Non-inflammatory acne, on the other hand, is characterised by and . These do not typically cause as much inflammation or discomfort.
In addition to in certain types of acne, tazarotene may also be more at treating sun-damaged skin. Tazarotene also has higher in wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and . This is based on that compared the of both at the same dose and .
Although tazarotene is than tretinoin, it also has a higher risk of side . The most common problem people experience whilst using tazarotene is skin . This is usually more severe than with . It may require the tazarotene or the dose and frequency so that the skin can it. For some people, they may not be able to tazarotene even at lower doses. Instead, they may have to switch to tretinoin or even an over-the-counter retinoid.
Which is Better, Tazarotene or Tretinoin?
So, is tazarotene better than ? This really on each and their specific skin concerns. The truth of the matter is that it’s not so simple. Tazarotene may be more effective at treating certain types of acne and possibly faster at improving sun-damaged skin. This is, however, offset by the fact that it is more irritating to the skin due to its higher . This may make it inappropriate for people with sensitive skin. It may also not be the best choice for treating sun-damage, ageing and non-inflammatory acne.
Tretinoin is also probably a better option for those who want to use it to generally the quality of the skin or maintain its appearance or for those who are just to use a retinoid. Another benefit to using is that it comes in a range of doses. It means you can start at a lower dose and the strength once your skin . This helps reduce irritation and makes it easier to tailor the to different people. is probably better for patients who have already used retinoids, do not have sensitive skin or who have severe psoriasis or inflammatory acne.
Ultimately, the best choice between and will depend on your specific skin concerns and goals as well as the of your provider. Both medications can be effective at the of acne, fine lines and uneven skin tone, so the one that will work best for you will be the that you can use most and consistently.
At City Skin Clinic, we are passionate about personalised skincare. Our online clinic offers safe and effective treatments using ingredients like and where appropriate. Our doctors treat skin like , , , and . To start your personalised plan, book a or use . The towards great skin and hair starts here.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always a qualified with any concerns about your skin or options.
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